AFCON 2013: Ghana v Mali Preview

Lessons have been learned from Ghana’s first game at the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations as the Black Stars go into the decisive fixture in Group B against Mali.

After a 2-2 draw against DR Congo on Sunday, Ghana’s campaign at the continental finals desperately needs a win to keep their chances of progressing to the next stage on course.

“I personally believe that there is no pressure on them [Black Stars]. I have advised them to concentrate on the game instead of listening to what happens outside,” Black Stars coach Kwesi Appiah said.

Meeting the group leaders, Mali, is expected to be another tough battle but Black Stars coach Kwesi Appiah believes the Black Stars can shake off their slow start and get a good result in Port Elizabeth on Thursday.

For Mali’s Seydou Keita, they are an improved side from the team that beat the Black Stars 2-0 to finish third in the last Nations Cup and have reason to aim high.

“The team has grown up. We’ve got more experience and more confidence too thanks to the last Cup of Nations,” Keita said.

“One thing is sure, though: we’re not worse than we were in 2012. We believe we can win the title and we want to do better than we did last year. If we have any chance of going all the way, there’s no doubt that we’ll seize it.”